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Science News Archive November 2019 - Page 23


Page 23 of 41

Could cytotoxic T-cells be a key to longevity?

Scientists have discovered that supercentenarians, people over 110, have an excess of cytotoxic CD4 T-cells, which may be key to their immunity. This finding could provide new insights into the mechanisms of healthy aging and immunosurveillance.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2019

Urban development reduces flash flooding chances in arid West

Researchers found that urbanization decreases 'flashiness' -- rise and fall rates of water flow in streams -- in arid urban watersheds. This is the opposite pattern observed in wetter regions like the East. The study suggests lessons for better stormwater management everywhere.

SourcePenn State·JournalWater Resources Research·DateNov 13, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Turning (more) fat and sewage into natural gas

North Carolina State University researchers have developed a more efficient method for converting sewage sludge and restaurant grease into methane. By increasing the amount of grease in the mixture, they were able to achieve a 75% ratio of grease to biosolids, resulting in a significantly higher methane yield.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalWater Research·DateNov 13, 2019

How self-reactive immune cells are allowed to develop

Researchers at Lund University have discovered a protein, Lin28b, that allows self-reactive B-1 cells to develop in mice. These cells produce antibodies against the body's own substances, but are beneficial in cleaning up dead cells and preventing inflammation.

SourceLund University·JournalScience Immunology·DateNov 13, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Scientists spearhead 'major step forward' for malaria vaccine

Researchers have identified key antibodies that can protect against severe forms of malaria, providing hope for the development of an effective vaccine. The study's findings, published in Cell Host & Microbe, show promise for new approaches to combatting the disease.

SourceDeakin University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 13, 2019

Predicting evolution

A team of Harvard researchers has developed a new method to track rapid evolution in yeast, using DNA 're-barcoding' to follow specific genomes over approximately 1,000 generations. This approach could lead to more accurate predictions for the dominant influenza strains, enabling effective flu vaccine development.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Genetics of species-specific birdsong revealed

Scientists uncover genetic differences in gene expression that underlie species-specific songs, revealing a key role for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in song learning. The study sheds new light on the evolution of animal behaviors.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 13, 2019

Talking with trained doctors can help abused women

A new study found that trained family doctors can significantly reduce depression in abused women by improving their perceived doctor support and increasing their self-efficacy. Women who received counseling from a doctor trained to recognize and respond to domestic violence reported greater confidence, support, and reduced depression.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalFamily Practice·DateNov 13, 2019

Spinal injuries: A new technology of electrostimulation for a more effective approach

The study's innovative approach uses a multi-electrode interface to deliver variable targeted stimuli to the spinal cord, increasing the effectiveness of neurorehabilitation and potentially treating a wider range of individuals. The technology has also shown promise in diagnostics, allowing for the assessment of residual activity in th...

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateNov 13, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Explosion in Tianjin Port enhanced atmospheric nitrogen deposition over the Bohai Sea

A recent study found that the Tianjin Port explosion significantly increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition in the Bohai Sea, with a 308.49 micromole N increase per square meter per day. The study suggests that the impact area of the explosion on the Bohai Sea is approximately 1/5 of its total area.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateNov 13, 2019

Lithium can reverse radiation damage after brain tumor treatment

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that lithium can reverse cognitive problems caused by radiation damage in mice, improving memory capacity and learning capability. The study suggests a potential new treatment for damage caused by brain tumor radiotherapy.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 13, 2019

Sex workers' preferences for HIV prevention center on convenience

A new study in Malawi found that sex workers prioritize convenience when accessing HIV-prevention medication, with family planning clinics and non-governmental drop-in centers being preferred locations. The women also emphasized the importance of extra health services, male healthcare providers, and convenient dosing schedules.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateNov 13, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

After decades of little progress, researchers may be catching up to sepsis

Biomedical researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a new rapid blood assay called PERSEVERE to detect and stratify sepsis. The test accurately predicts patient risk of death from sepsis, enabling early medical interventions with greater precision.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 13, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Crick researchers unravel protective properties of telomere t-loops

New study from the Francis Crick Institute reveals that telomere t-loops are crucial for protecting chromosomes from damage by adopting a lasso-like structure. The research also uncovered the mechanism that regulates the winding and unwinding of these t-loops, essential for maintaining chromosome integrity.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 2019

High rates of vaccine-preventable infections in pediatric transplant patients

A study of 6,980 pediatric solid organ transplant recipients found that 15.6% were hospitalized with a vaccine-preventable infection within the first five years after transplant, 87 times higher than in the general population. The researchers call for improved immunization rates to reduce this risk.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA·DateNov 13, 2019

Climate change expected to shift location of East Asian Monsoons

A new study by Berkeley Lab suggests that the East Asian Monsoon will shift geographically as the climate warms, leading to less rainfall in certain regions. The researchers used global climate models to investigate changes in the Hadley cell, resulting in a contraction of monsoon rains towards the equator during summer months.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 13, 2019

Phage therapy shows promise for treating alcoholic liver disease

Researchers successfully applied phage therapy to mice with alcohol-related liver disease, eradicating the disease by targeting destructive gut bacteria. Nearly 90% of patients with cytolysin-positive alcoholic hepatitis died within 180 days, but phage therapy showed promise in treating the condition.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New technique could optimize PSMA-targeted prostate cancer therapy

Researchers discovered a new way to optimize PSMA-targeted prostate cancer treatment by adjusting peptide concentrations, reducing tumor uptake and salivary gland damage. The study suggests that setting an optimal molar activity level can minimize adverse effects while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateNov 13, 2019

Improving trauma pain outcomes

A 7-year prospective cohort study found that early use of regional anesthesia is associated with sustained pain benefits throughout rehabilitation and recovery. The study suggests that effective, agile pain interventions can play an important role in reducing future pain.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalRegional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine·DateNov 13, 2019

Cholesterol, fat profiles at birth linked to psychological health at age 5

A study of 1,369 children found that high levels of good cholesterol and bad fats at birth can predict social and emotional development issues at age 5. Children with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low triglycerides showed improved psychological ratings from teachers.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 13, 2019

Discovery: New biomarker for cancer stem cells

A new biomarker, plectin, has been identified in cancer stem cells, which govern cancer survival and spread. Plectin's translocation onto the cell surface is linked to tumor invasion and metastasis, making it a potential target for drug development.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 13, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Dartmouth study assesses fracture risk for patients taking multiple medications

A Dartmouth study analyzed prescription records of 2.5 million Medicare beneficiaries and found that taking any one fracture-associated drug doubles a person's risk, while taking three or more increases it four-fold. The most hazardous combinations included opioids with sedatives, diuretics, or PPIs.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 13, 2019

The effects of a mock shelter environment on sleep

Researchers found that emergency blankets provided insufficient thermal insulation, leading to decreased sleep efficiency and increased fatigue. The study suggests that simple measures such as wearing down jackets can help regulate body temperature and improve sleep quality in low-temperature environments.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateNov 13, 2019

Stretchable, degradable semiconductors

Researchers have developed a new material that combines semiconducting properties with intrinsic stretchability and full degradability. The material can be stretched to twice its normal length without compromising electrical performance and degrades completely within 10 days in a weak acid.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 13, 2019

Black hole mergers: Cooking with gas

A new study suggests that researchers might be able to detect black hole mergers by observing the effect of their merger on a nearby gas disk. If successful, this would allow astronomers to pinpoint the cosmic location of these events and study them in greater detail.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 13, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Rational transparent conductor design provides a boost to carbon nanotubes application

Scientists at Skoltech developed a novel p-type flexible transparent conductor using single-walled carbon nanotubes, which opens new avenues for its applications. The newly developed conductor achieved a record power conversion efficiency of 8.8% in solar cells, outperforming traditional amorphous silicon solar cells.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNano Energy·DateNov 13, 2019

Few-cycle pulses break the 300 W barrier

A team of researchers has generated multi-millijoule 3-cycle pulses at an unprecedented average power level of 318 W, paving the way for industrial applications. The achievement marks a significant milestone in few-cycle laser technology and opens up new possibilities for highly parallelized material processing.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalOptica·DateNov 13, 2019

Study finds no such thing as a low-risk surgery for frail patients

A new study reveals that frail patients are at a significantly higher risk of death after even minor surgeries, including laparoscopic gallbladder removal. The researchers found that patients classified as frail or very frail had mortality rates of up to 43% after moderate-stress procedures.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateNov 13, 2019

Study raises new warnings about frail surgery patients

A VA-funded study found that frail surgery patients are at a significantly higher risk of mortality, even after low-risk procedures. Mortality rates were alarmingly high, with 30-day death rates ranging from 1.6% to 43%. The researchers recommend assessing frailty before any surgical procedure and focusing on pre-operative interventions.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateNov 13, 2019

Epitaxially-grown molybdenum oxide advances as a bulk-like 2D dielectric layer

Researchers developed a scalable method to grow orthorhombic molybdenum oxide (α-MoO3) nanosheets on graphene substrates using van der Waals epitaxial growth. The nanosheets retain bulk-like structural and electrical properties even at thicknesses of 2-3 layers, making them suitable for optoelectronic devices and power electronics.

SourceSeoul National University·DateNov 13, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Mysteries behind interstellar buckyballs finally answered

A team of researchers from the University of Arizona has discovered a mechanism creating complex carbon molecules, such as C60, in a simulated planetary nebula environment. The study suggests that these molecules are derived from silicon carbide dust made by dying stars and can be dispersed throughout the interstellar medium.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 13, 2019

Yale study finds 'hyperhotspots' that could predict skin cancer risk

Yale researchers have discovered hyperhotspots in the human genome that are up to 170-times more sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, potentially leading to a new way of predicting skin cancer risk. By analyzing these hyperhotspots, doctors could gain a better understanding of a patient's exposure history and skin cancer risk.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2019

Early ID of prenatal exposure to opioids, gabapentin improves timely treatment of newborns

Researchers at Marshall University found that universal maternal toxicology screening, including gabapentin, led to increased identification of co-exposure and improved timely treatment for newborns experiencing withdrawal symptoms. This resulted in shorter hospital stays, averaging 48 days compared to 58 days before the screening began.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateNov 13, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

The smell of old books could help preserve them

Researchers developed an electronic nose that can non-destructively detect odors emitted by books of different paper compositions and ages. The device distinguished between paper from cotton, linen, or wood, as well as identified acidic and yellowing papers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateNov 13, 2019

Firefighters can ease one another's job stress, but loving spouses may increase it

A Baylor University study found that strong same-sex friendships among male firefighters can help reduce job stress, but loving relationships with their wives may increase anxiety. The 'marriage effect' was a surprise, as married men have better health and lower mortality risk compared to single or divorced men.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateNov 13, 2019

Climate impact of hydropower varies widely

A new study reveals that hydropower's climate impact is not as environmentally friendly as thought, with some facilities emitting more greenhouse gases than fossil fuels. However, in the long-term, hydropower has a smaller climate benefit compared to methane emissions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 13, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

AI to determine when to intervene with your driving

Researchers at KAIST developed AI technology that automatically detects safe moments for AI agents to provide conversation services to drivers. The technology was tested on a real-world driving dataset and demonstrated an accuracy of 87% in determining opportune moments for driver interruption.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateNov 13, 2019

NASA provides an infrared analysis of Tropical Storm Fengshen

Tropical Storm Fengshen strengthened in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean, with NASA's Terra satellite detecting very high-powered storms and cold cloud top temperatures circling the center. Infrared data indicates strong storms capable of generating heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 13, 2019

Graphene: The more you bend it, the softer it gets

New research reveals that multilayer graphene behaves differently when bent a little versus a lot, with two distinct regimes of stiffness and flexibility identified. This discovery has implications for the creation of machines that can interact with cells or biological material.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 13, 2019

Evolution can reconfigure gene networks to deal with environmental change

Researchers have identified a cluster of over 800 genes that evolved to become 'plastic', allowing modern Daphnia to adjust its gene expression in response to phosphorus levels. This adaptability helps mitigate the effects of eutrophication, a major global threat to freshwater environments.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 13, 2019